TRAIL INFO. - This portion of the Appalachian Trail starts at an elevation of 3,820 ft. and gradually climbs to 5,216 ft. at the summit of Siler Bald. It is a very nice hike through a beautiful deciduous forest with lush vegetation and prolific wildflowers leading to a beautiful mountain top destination with a fantastic 360 degree view of the mountains.

Directions: From Franklin, NC, take Highway 64 West for about 10 miles and look for the parking lot on the left. (It is just beyond the large rock cliffs on each side of the road) You will see the Appalachian Trail sign.

Another great day for a hike! Partly cloudy and mild with temperatures from the low 60's to mid 70's F.

Here, we meet a thru-hiker from Pennsylvania. His trail name is "Groundhog" and his dog is "Paige" .
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Walking up the grassy slope to Siler Bald, we can see Lake Nantahala in the valley below.

Spectacular Mountain Views in every direction from the summit of Siler Bald.

Lunchtime at Siler Bald! Elevation 5,216 ft.

Looking from Siler Bald over to Winespring Bald and Wayah Bald.

Headed back down the mountain!

We identified 32 species of wildflowers in bloom today. Also, we saw several species of wildflowers in the fruit stage (top left and clockwise) Indian Cucumber Root, Blue Cohosh, Blue-bead Lily, White Baneberry (Doll's Eyes).